Changing teaching unions

Changing teaching unions might be a decision you are currently considering. 

Many school staff change teaching unions during the school holidays and before the start of a new academic year.

You might have joined your original teaching union having attended a teacher training conference or have just joined the union which the majority of staff at your school or have joined. 

The majority of school staff decide to change teaching unions throughout their careers for a range of different reasons. These could include:

• No longer being aligned with your teaching union’s values or activities
• Looking for a union alternative without the politics
• Not being impressed by the quality of service and effectiveness of your teaching union
• Finding a cheaper alternative. With the cost of living crisis, many school staff are reviewing their finances and looking for a cheaper union alternative, especially with the impact which taking part in strike action can have on monthly take home pay
• Recommendations and word of mouth from colleagues and other teaching staff
• Returning to teaching. You might be coming back from maternity leave or from having taken a career break from the classroom and looking to rejoin to ensure support when you need it
• Switching roles. You might be due to start supply teaching and looking for an organisation which can provide employment support in your role

Changing teaching unions: what do I need to consider?

You will have to weigh up a variety of information when you come to changing teaching unions. 

Conduct research, view recent social media posts and bulletins and look at customer reviews. 

We have published the following blog post which outlines the differences in pricing and the support offered between the teaching unions and Edapt.

You will want to ensure that you are ‘protected’ while you switch, so agree an end date with your current teaching union and start your new subscription as soon as your membership finishes. 

Check the terms and conditions before cancelling. You can also cancel your Direct Debit with your existing teaching union to make sure you are not charged at the end of the month if you are switching over to join Edapt. You can also call us to talk through any questions you might have before subscribing to Edapt.

Changing teaching unions: why should I subscribe to Edapt?

Edapt is the largest teaching union alternative in the UK, we are apolitical and independent.

Thousands of school staff (teachers, headteachers, teaching assistants, support staff) subscribe to our services where we provide high-quality employment support for their roles in school.

If you subscribe to Edapt you will receive:

• High-quality, experienced and legally trained caseworkers working on your case
• Up to £150,000 of legal costs should you need it for an employment tribunal, or professional conduct hearing
• Extended opening hours. Access to support and advice from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday
• Access to our Knowledge Base of support articles where you can research topics from performance-related pay, what to expect in an investigatory meeting to whether you are expected to attend school in extreme weather conditions
• Our monthly Policy Insights Newsletter (you can opt-in) and receive invites to our exclusive education events
• PR advice and media support if your case is published in the media

Leading technology to support your role in school

Through our user-friendly online platform, you can access resources, submit queries, and receive timely responses from the Edapt team. The use of technology streamlines the support process, allowing you to receive the assistance you need quickly and conveniently.

Tailored support and guidance

By joining Edapt, you gain access to expert advice and guidance tailored specifically to your needs. Whether you require assistance with employment issues, or legal support and advice Edapt provides personalised support to help you navigate the complexities of your teaching career.